Alberto López Sets a Trend with the Tzotzil Cosmogony in His Designs

Alberto López, a Chiapas artisan and designer, describes his journey to international recognition with his huipiles, overcoming significant challenges including homophobia and exploitation.

 

 

For a year, Alberto López wove in solitude within the confines of his bedroom. The traditional expectations of his community dictated that men should work in the fields, not engage in the weaving traditionally done by Tzotzil women of Magdalena Aldama, Chiapas. Simple tasks like buying threads and fabrics were fraught with difficulty, as he faced ridicule and verbal abuse.

 

“When I began, people criticized me harshly, saying I should be working in the fields like other men. Shopping for threads and fabrics became a nightmare with constant derision, even from women. I reached a breaking point and cried often,” Alberto recalls. “I didn’t want to burden my mother, but she eventually told me, ‘Don’t worry, I’ll support you. You’re not stealing anything from anyone. Keep going, I believe in your talent.’ She became my greatest mentor.”

 

Despite the societal resistance, Alberto’s determination led to him challenging conservative norms by publicly embracing his craft. “It was tough because our community has deeply rooted traditions, but we need to approach each other with respect and allow everyone the freedom to pursue their dreams,” he says. “I spent a year isolated, but eventually, I decided to take my weaving outside, under a tree, and let people talk.”

 

Defending his passion paid off, propelling him onto prestigious international stages like New York Fashion Week. “My journey began with my mother Margarita, who imparted the ancestral knowledge I use in my work. I don’t have a formal career, but I decided to forge my own path,” Alberto explains. “My first major opportunity was at Harvard University in Boston, where I gave a talk on our craft. Then came New York Fashion Week, with support from the Mexican community there. We aimed to showcase the talent of Mexico, especially from Chiapas.”

 

A key mission for Alberto is to address the exploitation faced by weaving artisans in his community. He founded his brand, K'uxul Pok', and the Kuxul Pok Workshop to combat this issue. “We face exploitation from middlemen who undervalue our work. It’s time to demand respect and fair value for our art, which carries deep historical significance,” he says.

 

Alberto is skilled in dyeing, spinning, and interpreting the symbolic meanings of each brocade, and now focuses on supporting fellow artisans. “Our goal is to uplift our community and preserve traditional techniques. We’ve seen significant growth, with 180 artisans from 11 municipalities now part of our workshop.”

 

In his quest to modernize traditional designs, Alberto is passionate about fashion and aims to collaborate with haute couture designers. “I dream of sharing my knowledge with top designers. I’ve been invited to participate in upcoming fashion shows in Spain and plan to showcase our textiles as wearable art,” he shares.

 

Through his brand and workshops, Alberto is dedicated to revitalizing ancestral techniques and fostering new talent. “Young people and men in my community are now learning traditional weaving. It’s inspiring to see others progress,” he says. Though single, Alberto finds joy in his work and looks forward to future possibilities, cherishing the cultural heritage he represents.